Indian music Includes multiple varieties of folk, popular, pop, classical music and R&B It has evolved over several eras Includes two subgenres- Hindustani and Carnatic music Began as an integral part of socio-religious life
Hindustani Music The Hindustani or North Indian style of Indian classical music Originated in Vedic ritual chants, but it has been evolving since the 12 th century CE Originated from what is now North India, Pakistan and Bangladesh and to some extent in Nepal and Afghanistan
Characteristics of Hindustani music It has religious/philosophical roots Highly formalised grammar Has several different genres (e.g. Alap, Masidkhani) and styles (Geeti, Bani or Baaj) Capable of intense expression in very slow speeds Steady, long held notes Gradually builds up tempo
Carnatic music Associated with the southern part of the Indian subcontinent Confined two four modern states: Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu Evolved from ancient Hindu traditions Of a more recent origin
Characteristics of Carnatic music Emphasis on vocal singing, most compositions are written to be sung Composition based, hence very little improvisation Has a very constant and quick tempo from the start Notes are not held for long It is usually performed by a small ensemble
Differences between Hindustani and Carnatic music Hindustani music uses various instruments, Carnatic uses mostly vocals Hindustani builds up the tempo, yet Carnatic has a constant, quick tempo so it lacks intensity, introspection, microtones and several ornaments found in Hindustani music Hindustani music contains more improvisation Carnatic music has short notes, yet Hindustani music has long, held notes
References ‘Wikipedia: Music of India’ [online] 2001, Available: [accessed 28th November, 2013] ‘Wikipedia: Hindustani Classical Music’ [online] 2001, Available: [accessed 28th November, 2013] ‘Raga Culture: Hindustani Music’ [online] (date created not listed) Available: [accessed 28 th November, 2013] ‘Wikipedia: Carnatic Music’ [online] 2001, Available: [accessed 28th November, 2013]